Experts explain the ins and outs of pay rises, how to ask for one and what to do if the answer is no. — Photo: Zacharie Scheurer/dpa
Asking for a pay rise can be an uncomfortable talking point, leaving people either not knowing how or when to approach the conversation and also what to do if their request is denied.
Research from Totaljobs’ Salary Trends 2025 report found that 67% of those under 30 in the UK feel comfortable asking for a pay rise in comparison to 56% of those over 30. There is also a slight gender divide as 79% of young men feel more comfortable asking for a rise compared to 67% of women, highlighting that it still isn’t a conversation that everyone wants to have.
